Modeling Linear Equations (Algebra)

At a glance:

Topics: algebra, linear equations, functions, rate of change, graphing, modeling real-life scenarios

Grades: 7-9

Standards: CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.REI.D.10, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.EE.B.6,7

Duration to complete: 10-15 minutes

Learning outcome: Students will understand what a linear equation is and how they can model real-life situations. Students will generate equations to solve real-world problems.

Intro for students: Use algebra in real life -- for real!  Build linear equations to solve real-world problems.  Whether you’re on the run, spending your money wisely, or building the tallest ice cream cone ever, linear equations are here to help! #linearequations #algebra #functions #running #finances #money #phoneplan #icecream #tallesticecreamcone #realworld #problemsolving

What makes this topic challenging for kids?

One of the biggest challenges in algebra is understanding how it can be applied to real life.  Students look at the letters and symbols in general linear functions and ask, “When am I ever going to use this in real life?”.

What’s our approach?

Our experience takes linear functions and applies them to real-world scenarios. While it’s true that many textbooks attempt this, our interactive experience provides real-world context in a fun, engaging way.

Having complete control over multiple representations of a linear function provides the user with a sandbox to experiment and learn the concept intuitively.